Dandruff is a common problem. Almost half of the world’s population suffers from it.
It is usually caused by the fungus Malassezia, which is naturally present on the skin. The fungus can get out of control under certain conditions, which include cold weather, humid air, sweat, stress, immune system suppression, and dermatitis flare-ups.
Anti-dandruff shampoos available from pharmacies can help you deal with this problem, but they may be too harsh for your hair. Below are some natural home remedies that you can try at home.
1. Aloe Vera
One of its many uses is in the treatment of dandruff. This remedy is very simple and here is how to use it:
take enough gel from a few fresh aloe vera leaves to cover the entire scalp;
gently massage the gel into the scalp and leave it for one hour;
then rinse off the gel.
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2. Coconut oil
Coconut oil is a great remedy for irritated and dry skin. It is also known for its powerful antibacterial and antifungal effects. But it does more harm than good if you leave it on your head for too long. Other oils are also not recommended to be left on the hair or skin for too long, as they can “feed” the fungus that caused the dandruff.
To make coconut oil work well against dandruff, do this:
mix coconut oil with a little freshly squeezed lemon juice;
massage the mixture into the scalp for several minutes and leave for 20 minutes;
after that, wash your hair with shampoo.
3. Nettle
Fresh nettle can sting, but you can safely use it 30 minutes after being cut, or go for a dried option.
To get rid of dandruff, use the plant in this way:
pour a handful of nettle leaves into a cup of hot water;
let the liquid stand for 1.5 hours, then strain;
massage the infusion into the scalp;
put on a shower cap for 30-40 minutes;
you don’t have to wash your hair afterwards.
Use this remedy twice a week.
4. Lemon juice and yogurt
Mixing lemon juice and yogurt will give you an effective cleanser, moisturizer and dandruff-fighting remedy. Here’s how to do it:
squeeze the juice from half a lemon;
add juice to 1/4 cup plain yogurt;
Spread this mixture on the scalp and leave for 20 minutes;
then wash your hair with shampoo.
5. Baking soda
Baking soda can be used as an exfoliant and also helps fight bacteria and fungi that lead to dandruff. Here’s how to apply baking soda:
Gently rub 1 or 2 tablespoons of baking soda onto damp scalp for a few minutes.
then rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water.
Do this once or twice a week. In order not to damage the hair, you should not wash it with shampoo after this procedure.
6. Apple cider vinegar
Like baking soda, apple cider vinegar is a versatile home remedy. It cleanses your hair and scalp and eliminates harmful fungi and bacteria. Apply apple cider vinegar as follows:
combine equal parts vinegar and water (about 1/4 cup each);
add 20 drops of tea tree oil;
gently massage the mixture into the scalp for several minutes;
then rinse your hair and scalp with water.
7. Garlic
The strong smell may cause some people to avoid this product, but it contains substances with powerful antibacterial and antifungal effects. To get rid of odor, apply this product before shampooing your hair. Here is how to use garlic to fight dandruff:
chop 5 or 6 cloves of garlic;
add some water to the garlic to make a paste;
apply the paste on the scalp for 20-30 minutes;
after that, wash your hair with shampoo.
All these tools are effective and require repeated use. If home remedies and dandruff shampoos don’t solve your problem, see a dermatologist.
